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A Harrogate wealth management firm has honoured the memory of a former partner with a donation to a Starbeck mental health charity.

Williams Investment Management LLP has given £1,000 to Wellspring Therapy & Training charity in memory of Robert Ash, who died last September.

Mr Ash was a well-known figure in the Harrogate business community. He was a stockbroker with 35 years experience and joined the company in 2005, a year after it was set up.

Duncan Williams, founding partner of Williams Investment Management, said:

“We miss Robert tremendously; especially his inimitable wit and charm, We had worked together for more than 30 years at this firm and elsewhere and he was both a dear friend and a valued business partner.”

“It seemed appropriate to honour his memory with a donation to Wellspring Therapy & Training, which does fantastic work in the Harrogate and district community, providing private counselling at affordable rates, easing the overwhelming demand on the NHS mental health services, and providing hope for children, families and individuals who are struggling with mental ill health and associated distress’.”

Wellspring Therapy & Training is based on Starbeck High Street. The charity was founded in 2003 and provides affordable short and long-term counselling for the Harrogate and district community.

Nick Garrett, interim chief executive of Wellspring, said:

“We are very grateful indeed to Williams Investment Management for their donation in memory of Robert. It is reassuring that something positive can emerge from such a tragedy and this money will enable us to provide much-needed mental health support for our clients.

“Demand for our services in the Harrogate region has never been greater, with the lingering effects of the global pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis combining to make life very challenging for so many people. The support of local firms such as Williams Investment Management is absolutely crucial in helping us to provide the mental health services that are badly needed.”

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